Army Offensive Wipes Out ISWAP Commander, 21 Fighters in Borno Forest

Nigerian Army troops have killed at least 22 fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during military operations in Borno State.

Security sources told counter-terrorism publication Zagazola Makama that the fighters were neutralised during sustained operations by Army special forces in the Timbuktu Triangle axis of the Sambisa Forest.

Those killed reportedly include a senior ISWAP commander, known as a *Qaid*, and two unit leaders, referred to as *Munzirs*. Several other fighters were said to have escaped with gunshot wounds.

“ISWAP suffered heavy losses during the engagement. A Qaid and two Munzirs were among those neutralised, while many others were injured,” a security source said.

The source added that efforts were ongoing to formally confirm the identities of the senior commanders killed in the operation.

Surviving ISWAP fighters are believed to be regrouping in forested areas around Bulabulin, approximately 18 to 20 kilometres west of Damboa, and around Korengelen, south-east of Azir.

Security officials said intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations have been intensified in the identified locations and surrounding forests to track and intercept fleeing fighters.

“The military is maintaining pressure on the remnants of the group through aggressive clearance operations and aerial surveillance,” another source said.